The race to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America is heating up in South America, with Argentina leading the pack. However, the most surprising story so far is the struggles of Brazil, who may face their first ever unsuccessful qualifying campaign. Other notable teams like Bolivia and Venezuela are proving to be more competitive this time around, setting the stage for an intense October with crucial matches ahead.
Brazil and Chile Struggle in FIFA World Cup Qualification
The race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America is heating up in South America, with Argentina leading the pack. However, the biggest surprise so far has been the struggles of Brazil and Chile, two traditional powerhouses in South American football.
Brazil's Challenges
Brazil, the five-time World Cup champions, have never failed to qualify for the tournament before. However, they currently sit outside the automatic qualification zone in fifth place in the CONMEBOL standings. Brazil's struggles have been attributed to a number of factors, including injuries to key players, poor form, and a lack of consistency.
Chile's Decline
Chile, the 2015 and 2016 Copa América champions, are also facing an uphill battle to qualify for the World Cup. They currently sit eighth in the standings, just one point ahead of last-placed Bolivia. Chile's decline has been caused by a combination of factors, including the retirement of key players, a lack of depth, and poor coaching decisions.
Surprise Performers
While Brazil and Chile have struggled, other teams have emerged as surprise performers in South American qualifying. Bolivia and Venezuela, who have historically been among the weakest teams in the region, are both in contention for a playoff spot.
Remaining Matches
With only six matches remaining in the qualification process, the battle for the five automatic qualification spots and one playoff spot is set to intensify. Brazil and Chile will both need to improve their performances significantly if they want to avoid missing out on the World Cup.
FAQs
1. What are Brazil's chances of qualifying for the World Cup?
Brazil's chances of qualifying for the World Cup are slim, but not impossible. They will need to win at least four of their remaining six matches and hope that other results go their way.
2. What happened to Chile?
Chile's decline has been attributed to a combination of factors, including the retirement of key players, a lack of depth, and poor coaching decisions.
3. Who are the surprise performers in South American qualifying?
Bolivia and Venezuela have both emerged as surprise performers in South American qualifying, with both teams in contention for a playoff spot.
4. When will the World Cup qualification process be completed?
The South American World Cup qualification process is scheduled to be completed by March 2023.
5. How many teams from South America will qualify for the World Cup?
Four teams from South America will automatically qualify for the World Cup, with one additional team qualifying via a playoff.
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